A collaboration with ikapa Dance Theatre brings
dancers from Steps on Broadway to Cape Town, South Africa...

Steps and The ikapa Dance Theatre of Cape Town South Africa Flip With The Dance Enthusiast

( more real deal behind the scenes dance- straight from the heart of artists)

Mindy Upin, rehearsal director of Steps Repertory Ensemble, describes GAIN, the program of Partnership between the Steps Ensemble in New York and The ikapa Dance Theatre in South Africa-

Our collaboration began a year prior to this when two of our Ensemble members, Sara Hoenes and Kyle Mullins, joined ikapa in teaching children of the Cape Town townships. (These type of outreach classes were important to the formation of the current ikapa company. Many company members got their start in community programs.)

We then hosted the ikapa choreographer ,Theo Ndindwa, and dancers Mbulelo Ngubombini and Zandile Constable at Steps in May 2010, to begin construction of our collaborative work. "Finding A Peace of Mind" premiered during our annual showcase "Celebrate Dance" at the Riverside Theater on NYC.

Steps Repertory Ensemble in South Africa

"It was incredible to witness the power of dance transcending borders."- Mindy Upin

The last phase of GAIN, was completed with our trip in December. At this time, more ensemble members had the opportunity to inspire and be inspired by the South African children. Our dance piece developed and changed tremendously from its original premiere. Additional members from both companies were included, and the themes of peace and reconciliation were further explored.

Our shared concert "Fuse", celebrated South Africa's December 16th public holiday " Reconciliation Day" which marks the end of apartheid. Every piece performed in our concert, although extremely different in movement style and quality, encompassed themes of harmony and mutual understanding. Choreographers included Andrea Miller, Cherice Barton, Donald Byrd, Ebrahim Medell, Maxwell Xolani Rani, and Theo Ndindwa & Tanya Arshamian.